Skills Funding Agency
The Brathay Apprentice Challenge 2017 has launched and we are encouraging employers and training to enter their apprentices in the search for the apprentice team of the year.
Now in its 6th year, the Brathay Apprentice Challenge is designed to develop and test the teams team building, leadership, logistical and communications abilities.
The challenge sees teams undertake a series of exciting and interactive work-related challenges to develop new skills and showcase their employer by engaging with young people and businesses to promote the benefits of apprenticeships.
Teams of 9 apprentices entering the Brathay Apprentice Challenge can be from a single employer, a group of small businesses, an industry sector, supply chain or training provider. There is no limit to the number of teams that can be entered per organisation or group.
Last year over 700 apprentices from 80 teams entered the Brathay Apprentice Challenge from SMEs to large organisations, colleges and training providers. The apprentices covered a vast array of careers vital to the economy, including nuclear power, aerospace, construction, engineering, creative industries and the public sector.
The 2016 teams spread the word about apprenticeships to young people and employers. They visited nearly 400 schools, careers fairs and youth groups to encourage young people to consider an apprenticeship and recruited over 400 new apprentice employers.
The teams also delivered 45 community projects that benefited young people ranging from renovation projects to creating volunteering opportunities.
Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Robert Halfon said:
The Brathay Apprentice Challenge is a brilliant opportunity for apprentices from all backgrounds to showcase their talents while learning the skills they need to get on the ladder of opportunity to a better future.
It is always fantastic seeing how many top class employers get involved in this challenge every year. It demonstrates a commitment from business to quality apprenticeships that are essential if we truly want a country that works for everyone.
Apprentices from the UK Atomic Energy Authority were named apprentice team of the year 2016 at Brathay Trusts Windermere headquarters in June.
On winning the title UKAEA Team leader and Electronic Engineering apprentice, David Godden said:
The whole team worked really hard throughout the whole challenge and the experience will stay with us forever. We were also thankful for the huge support we have had from our colleagues, our families and friends.
Winning the title has supported our efforts to inspire young people and to use our journey as an inspiration for themselves. Hard work, determination and self-confidence are key to success.
Godfrey Owen, Chief Executive, Brathay Trust, said:
The challenge provides apprentices with the opportunity to develop a huge range of skills with previous entrants reporting improved team building, leadership, logistical and communications skills. The apprentices taking part also become more confident and ultimately more employable.
This year, we are also pleased to announce that we have partnered with City & Guilds to offer apprentices the opportunity to take part in a full day training session, that will provide apprentices with the skills that they need to complete the challenge and boost their careers.
We look forward to both apprentices and employers gaining these benefits in the search for the apprentice team of the year 2017.
Sue Husband, Director of the National Apprenticeship Service, said:
The quality of work from the teams that take part in the Brathay Apprentice Challenge demonstrates the impressive contribution that apprentices make to both business and the wider community. This challenge is a brilliant opportunity for employers to let their fantastic apprentices shine. I hope employers encourage apprentices to take part in this challenge and put their teams forward and enter today.
For more information on the Brathay Apprentice Challenge 2017 and to enter a teamvisit brathay.com/challenge.